AI and Research Assignments Cohort
SMU Libraries offers a $1000 stipend for faculty interested in redesigning a research assignment for the age of AI, whether to address concerns with AI or integrate AI tools. A cohort of instructors, supported by SMU librarians, will explore how to promote student learning and research skills by designing or redesigning research assignments for their Spring 2027 courses. The group will build strategies for teaching AI literacy, help students understand the appropriate use of AI in research, and ensure students develop critical thinking and reading skills in the age of AI.
The faculty cohort will meet in December 2026 to consider how to share ideas and learn methods for designing AI-aware research assignments. Results of assignment redesign and lessons learned will be shared at the final cohort meeting in May 2027.
Application Process
The deadline to submit applications is November 16, 2026.
Eligibility
All full-time and part-time faculty members are eligible.
Expectations
- Attend a faculty session in December 2026 (more information to come)
- Implement a research assignment in a Spring 2027 course that does one of the following:
- Incorporates AI literacy as an information skill
- Explores new ways of sharing the results of research besides written papers
- Takes an existing research assignment and redesigns it with AI in mind
- Attend debriefing sessions in May 2027 and report on the results of the assignment design
Selection Criteria
Up to 6 cohort members will be selected based on:
- The submitted proposal to design or redesign a research assignment with AI in mind for a Spring 2027 course
- Applicant's availability to commit to 3 hours of meetings with the cohort
- A willingness to learn and share ideas – applicants are not expected to have all of the answers